A 4-3-1-2 of sorts was another new formation conjured up by Pippo Inzaghi. It left no room for Cerci and featured Bonaventura behind Destro and the oft selfish with the ball Menez. Montolivo was back from injury but the defence was still suffering from unavailability of Abate, De Sciglio, Zapata, Paletta, Alex, Armero and Zaccardo! Also, Abbiati started for suspended Diego Lopez.
An early Poli goal was called off due to offside. The team seemed a bit more cohesive and the first half was better than recent games. It paid off as Bonaventura shot well into the far corner from a nice play to beat Nicola Leali in the Cesena goal. The second half wasn’t as good perhaps but little of note was created by the visitors. Late on a questionable penalty was given and sub Pazzini sealed a relatively comfortable win.
How much value there is in beating a relegation team at home? Based on the matches since the start of the 2015 calendar year any win is a good win. It is inevitable to hear Pippo and management claim a “new start” but this was only one game.

There is also some truth to the following. Inzaghi preferred three subs, including van Ginkel, over Suso.